Ibrahim (AS) – An Example of Sacrificing for the Sake of Allahﷻ cover image

    One Ummah News - 7 May 2024

    Ibrahim (AS) – An Example of Sacrificing for the Sake of Allahﷻ

    The remarkable story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is a shining example of unwavering faith, obedience to Allahﷻ, and ultimate sacrifice for the sake of the Almighty. His life serves as a beacon of guidance for the Ummah, reminding us of the importance of complete submission to Allahﷻ.

    Prophet Ibrahim’s Willingness to Sacrifice His Beloved Son for Allahﷻ

    In a test that shook the very depths of his faith, Allahﷻ commanded Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS). Despite the heightened emotions and profound love a father bears for his child, Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion to Allahﷻ was unmatched. He prepared to obey the divine command, demonstrating his absolute trust in the wisdom and mercy of the Almighty.

    The remarkable story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is a shining example of unwavering faith, obedience to Allahﷻ, and ultimate sacrifice for the sake of the Almighty. His life serves as a beacon of guidance for the Ummah, reminding us of the importance of complete submission to Allahﷻ.

    Qur’an

    "And when he (Ismail) was old enough to walk with him, he said: ‘O my son! I have seen in a dream that I am slaughtering you, so look, what do you think?’ He said: ‘O my father! Do as you are commanded. Insha’Allah, you shall find me of the patient.’"

    Qur’an, 37:102

    The Journey to Mount Arafat

    Guided by Allah’sﷻ command, Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS) embarked on a journey to Mount Arafat – a sacred place where pilgrims gather during Hajj, seeking forgiveness and drawing closer to their Lord. With each step, Allahﷻ tested their faith, yet their resolve remained unshaken, exemplifying their Tawakkul (complete trust in Allahﷻ).

    Ismail’s (AS) submission to Allah’sﷻ will, despite the fear of giving his life, is a profound lesson in itself. His words, “Do as you are commanded. Insha’Allah, you shall find me of the patient,” echo the essence of true faith and trust in the divine plan, reminding us to embrace Sabr (patience) and Radha (contentment) in the face of trials.

    As Ibrahim (AS) prepared to sacrifice his beloved son, his devotion to Allahﷻ reached its pinnacle. The Qur’an describes this pivotal moment: “We called out to him: ‘O Ibrahim! You have indeed fulfilled the vision.’ Thus indeed do We reward the good-doers.” –[37:104-105].

    Allah’sﷻ Divine Intervention

    At the moment of truth, when Ibrahim (AS) was about to sacrifice Ismail (AS), Allahﷻ intervened and provided a ram as a substitute. The Qur’an states, “And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice.” –[37:107]. This divine intervention was a testament to Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering faith and a reminder of Allah’sﷻ infinite mercy and compassion.

    The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) teaches us numerous invaluable lessons that resonate deeply with the essence of Islam. It highlights the importance of complete submission to Allah’sﷻ will, the strength of Emaan in the face of immense trials, and the willingness to sacrifice everything for the sake of our Creator. It reminds us to cultivate Tawakkul, Sabr and Radha in our lives, the hallmarks of true believers.

    Applying Ibrahim’s (AS) Example to Our Lives

    As Muslims, the profound significance of sacrificing for Allahﷻ calls upon us to reflect. Just as Ibrahim (AS) was willing to sacrifice his beloved son, and Ismail’s (AS) willingness to be sacrificed, we must surrender our desires, attachments, and worldly possessions for the sake of Allahﷻ. Living in accordance to the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah helps us achieve this.

    To emulate the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), we must nurture a deep love for Allahﷻ and a steadfast commitment to His teachings. We can achieve this through regular remembrance (Dhikr), sincere repentance (Tawbah), and purification of our hearts and actions.

    Additionally, we can follow Ibrahim’s (AS) footsteps by maintaining strong family bonds and instilling the love of Allahﷻ and His Messengerﷺ in our children. We can inspire future generations to uphold the values of Islam and continue the legacy left by Allah’sﷻ Messengers.

    The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) serves as a timeless inspiration for Muslims worldwide. His unwavering faith, obedience to Allah’sﷻ commands, and selflessness are qualities we should emulate in our own lives. Through his example, we learn the true essence of submission to Allahﷻ, the importance of trusting in His divine planning, and the necessity of putting our faith into action.

    May we all be guided by the light of Ibrahim’s (AS) legacy and find the strength to make sacrifices for the sake of our Lord, just as he did. May our lives be a testament to our Emaan, and may we be among those rewarded for their good deeds.

    The Prophet Muhammadﷺ said

    The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his charity.

    Multiply your Rewards

    Evidently, the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah is when our righteous deeds are most beloved by Allahﷻ. Let us seize this opportunity to purify our souls and draw closer to our Lord through worship and compassion. Open your hearts and extend your generosity to those in need.

    During these virtuous days, multiply your rewards by spreading your Zakah, Sadaqah, and Qurbani donations across the first ten nights. Let your charity be a means of seeking Allah’sﷻ pleasure and a source of relief for the less fortunate. Invest in your Akhirah and reap the blessings of this blessed season. May Allahﷻ accept your good deeds and grant you His infinite mercy. Ameen.